Checkout Lane: Picking a bike still based on feel, lifestyle

Shopping for a bicycle isn't like it used to be, says Joseph Fucile, owner of the Bicycle Clinic in South Weymouth, Mass.

"In the old days it was A, B or C," said Fucile of the relatively limited bicycle options of old. "Today, it's, 'Let's get some coffee and talk.'"

But despite the increased variety of makes and models, choosing the right bicycle still begins with determining where you plan to ride.

For those looking to do off-road riding, you need a mountain bike. The mountain bike you choose depends on how intensely you plan to ride. If you're planning to hit the trails every weekend and advancing in the sport of mountain biking, Rockland Cycle owner Dave Letourneau said you should be paying at least $600 for a bike.

As for those just looking at dabbling, and staying away from the high-intensity trails, Fucile said they can settle for a hybrid bicycle, or as he calls them, "pseudo-mountain bikes." Although they are typically shaped like mountain bikes, hybrid bicycles are designed for on- and off-road use and retail for as little as $300.

Hybrid bikes, Fucile said, are relatively durable, although they're not suitable for the serious trail-riding enthusiast.

If you're interested in road riding, chances are you fall into one of two categories: those interested in riding long distances or as a means of transport, and those looking to get some fresh air around the neighborhood.

For the former, Fucile said the trend among college-aged students and city bikers is to go with a fixed-gear one-speed road bike -- both for its simplicity and light weight.

For riders just looking for a new way to explore the neighborhood, Fucile said so-called "comfort bikes" are increasingly popular -- especially with older riders. They allow the rider to sit upright, as opposed to hunched forward, and feature amenities like shock absorbers and extra-padded seats.

Ultimately though, regardless of the style or model you choose, buying a bike comes down to feel, Letourneau said.

"The bike may have good specifications, be a good deal and look great, but if it doesn't feel right when you ride it, it's not the bike for you," he said.

A.J. Bauer may be reached at ajbauer@ledger.com.